When you have been injured through the negligence or wrongful act of another, the state of Florida allows you to file a personal injury suit against the person who caused your injury. The result of a personal injury suit is usually to receive compensation for the damages that have been caused by the other person. Of course, the elements of negligence must be proven and the statute of limitations must not have expired, but filing suit is an option to those injured in accidents.
Even though we live in a litigious society, the reality is that the majority of civil cases never make it to trial. Most cases settle before a trial starts. This is not to say that settling a personal injury case is a necessity, but it is an option available in most all personal injury cases. Before making the decision to settle, however, it is important to meet with a personal injury attorney to discuss your options. There are many considerations to take into account when determining if you should settle your case.
Time Considerations
There is no time limit on the length of personal injury suits. Cases can last for months, or even years. The statute of limitations requires that cases be filed with three years of the injury, but there is no statute limiting the actual length of the case. More complex cases will take longer than simple cases to come to a conclusion. While it might not seem like a big deal to wait for the conclusion of a case, those under a financial burden because of the injury might be pressured for a quicker result. An individual who needs compensation for damages in a shorter period of time might consider settling the case.
Chances at Success
If any attorney makes a guarantee of a particular outcome for your case, run far away. There is no way to guarantee the outcome of any case until a decision is made or a settlement is agreed upon. That being said, experienced attorneys often can weigh the evidence and compare the facts to similar cases to give their opinion on what an outcome might be. This is not a guarantee. Similar cases can often result in similar outcomes, and this information can sometimes be used in deciding whether to take a settlement offer.
Understanding Your Options
Before accepting a personal injury settlement offer, it is important to know your options. Settling means that the case is over. You need to be sure that your voice has been heard to the extent that you want it to be. As long as you are aware of the options available to you, have consulted with an attorney, and understand the results of a settlement, the decision is yours to make.
The personal injury attorneys at Dennis Hernandez & Associates are here to help you, whether you decide to settle your case or see it through to trial. We are here to guide you through the process and help you make the best decision possible. Contact us today for a consultation.
